Disrupted cartilage products

ABSTRACT

A cryopreserved cartilage product is disclosed. The cryopreserved cartilage product can include a partially digested cryopreserved natural cartilage collagen matrix isolated from a subject. The collagen matrix can include viable cells embedded within the collagen matrix that are native to the collagen matrix and that were embedded in the collagen matrix when the collagen matrix was isolated from the subject, at least 70% of the embedded cells native to the collagen matrix can be viable in the cryopreserved cartilage product, and the partially digested collagen matrix can retain interaction between the collagen matrix and the native cells.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/498,394 filed Sep. 26, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/939,981 filed Jul. 11, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/670,424, 61/670,434, and 61/670,444, each of which was filed Jul. 11, 2012. The contents of each of the referenced applications are incorporated into the present application by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to cartilage products useful in therapeutics and methods of producing and using such therapeutics.

BACKGROUND

Articular cartilage injury remains one of the major unsolved problems in orthopedics. Over 500,000 patients per year in the U.S. undergo surgical procedures to repair cartilage damage. However, many of these surgeries yield suboptimal results.

Articular cartilage consists primarily of a sparse population of chondrocytes distributed throughout an extracellular matrix formed by proteoglycans in a type II collagen fibril. The collagens give the tissue its form and tensile strength and the interaction of proteoglycans with water give the tissue its stiffness to compression, resilience and durability. The hyaline cartilage provides a low friction bearing surface over the bony parts of the joint. If the lining becomes worn or damaged resulting in lesions, joint movement may be painful or severely restricted. Whereas damaged bone typically can regenerate successfully, hyaline cartilage regeneration is quite limited.

Current surgical treatments include microfracture, debridement, osteochondral grafting, and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI). The goal of these treatments is to repair and regenerate native hyaline cartilage (collagen type II).

Microfracturing involves the removal of damaged articular cartilage followed by physically insulting the underlying subchondral bone to exposed bone marrow and create bleeding. Although the blood clot introduces inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and MSCs to fill the defect, the process fails to produce articular cartilage and instead stimulates the production of fibrocartilage scar tissue, made from collagen type I. Fibrocartilage has poor long-term biomechanical performance, causes abnormal bone growth, and increases risk of osteoarthritis.

Other strategies that have fallen short include autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), debridement, and osteochondral grafting.

Gomes et al. (US 2004/0230303) describes an implant having a subchondral bone base and an articular cartilage cap containing bores drilled through the cartilage cap and base to allow cell migration. The implant can be digested with hyaluronidase (type IV-s, 3 mg/ml) and trypsin (0.25% in monodibasic buffer 3 ml) for 18 hours at 37° C. Gomes et al. do not teach a flexible cartilage implant, a cartilage implant containing viable native chondrocytes, or a non-immunogenic cartilage implant.

Chen et al. (US 2009/0024229) describes a cartilage graft that is devitalized (made acellular) and then recellularized. The graft can be microperforated to facilitate recellularization. The graft can be devitalized using enzymes to modify the molecular aspects of the cartilage such as chondroitinase to remove proteoglycan and a recombinant endonuclease, for example BENZONASE.®. (Merk, Inc.). Chen et al. do not teach a flexible cartilage implant or a cartilage implant containing viable native chondrocytes or a non-immunogenic cartilage implant.

Steinwachs et al. (US 2008/0269895) describes cartilage implants having various features. The implant can be a grown in-vitro from chondrocytes or can be a cartilage explant. Among various features, the implant can have channels with a diameter of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Among other shortcomings, Steinwachs et al. do not teach a digested cartilage implant or a non-immunogenic cartilage implant.

Bardos et al. (“Osteochondral Integration of Multiply Incised Pure Cartilage Allograft: Repair Method of Focal Chondral Defects in a Porcine Model”; Am J Sports Med 2009 37: 50S) describes a pig cartilage sample comprising parallel incisions. Bardos et al. does not teach a spiral cut cartilage sample or a non-immunogenic cartilage sample.

Bravenboer et al. (“Improved cartilage integration and interfacial strength after enzymatic treatment in a cartilage transplantation model”; Arthritis Res Ther 2004, 6) describes bovine articular cartilage treated with hyaluronidase followed by collagenase. Among other shortcomings, Bravenboer et al. do not teach a mechanically disrupted cartilage sample or a non-immunogenic cartilage sample.

Bos et al. (“Specific Enzymatic Treatment of Bovine and Human Articular Cartilage”; Arthritis & Rheumatism Vol. 46, No. 4, April 2002, pp 976-985) describes cartilage samples treated with collagenase VII. Bos et al. does not teach a mechanically disrupted cartilage sample or a non-immunogenic cartilage sample.

What is needed in the art is a flexible cartilage product that can be easily administered, for example, through an arthroscope cannula, and contoured to a site of injured cartilage and provides a collagen type II matrix containing viable chondrocytes and chondrogenic factors for regeneration of cartilage with minimal scarring.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides cartilage products, methods of manufacturing the cartilage products, and methods of using the cartilage products. A cartilage product according to the present invention comprises a disrupted collagen matrix. The collagen matrix comprises mechanical disruptions (e.g. collagen matrix is spiral cut), enzymatic disruptions (e.g. collagen matrix is collagenase-treated), or both mechanical disruptions and enzymatic disruptions.

The collagen matrix of exemplary cartilage products of the present invention have one or more (e.g. each) of the following technical features:

-   -   is derived from hyaline cartilage or comprises collagen II;     -   comprises viable cells that are optionally native to the         collagen matrix;     -   comprises bioactive factors;     -   exhibits greater flexibility than native articular cartilage;         and     -   is cryopreserved or formulated in a cryopreservation medium and         is substantially non-immunogenic.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises type II collagen (or “collagen II”). Optionally, a majority of the collagen in the collagen matrix is collagen II, such as a collagen matrix provided by hyaline cartilage (e.g. articular cartilage). Optionally, the cartilage product is devoid of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage, or both subchondral bone and calcified cartilage. Optionally, the collagen matrix comprises one or more cartilage layers selected from: a radial layer, a transitional layer, and a tangential layer.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product comprises viable cells. Optionally, the viable cells are chondrocytes. Optionally, the viable cells are native to the collagen matrix. Optionally, the viable cells are distributed through the collagen matrix in a gradient. Optionally, the pores are aligned with the gradient.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product comprises bioactive factors such as chondrogenic factors. Optionally, the chondrogenic factors are selected from the group consisting of TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3, BMP-2, BMP-7, bFGF, and IGF-1. Optionally, the cartilage comprises collagen II, hyaluronan, and aggrecan.

In one embodiment, the disruptions are enzymatic disruptions and the ECM protein (e.g. collagen) fragments are substantially shorter than that of native articular cartilage. Additionally or alternatively, a substantial amount of the ECM protein in the collagen matrix is fragmented relative to that of native articular cartilage. Optionally, the ECM protein fragments are produced by enzymatic disruption (“digestion”) of a native cartilage, e.g. digestion such as collagenase (e.g. Type II) treatment.

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are of the tissue-removal type. Optionally, the mechanical disruptions of the tissue-removal type are selected from: spiral cuts, grooves, cross-grooves, pores, and hoop-forming core cuts.

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are of the tissue-non-removal type. Optionally, the mechanical disruptions of the tissue-non-removal type are selected from: scores, spiral cuts, cross-scores, and piercings.

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruptions disrupt (i.e. extend through) the entire thickness of the cartilage sample. Alternatively, the mechanical disruptions disrupt less than the entirety of the thickness of the cartilage sample.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product is substantially non-immunogenic. Optionally, the cartilage product does not comprise a substantial amount of macrophages.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix has a thickness of about 0.5 to about 2.0 mm. Optionally, the thickness is about 1 to about 2 mm. Optionally, the thickness is about 1 to about 1.5 mm.

In one embodiment, the disrupted collagen matrix is more flexible than unmodified articular cartilage of similar thickness.

The invention also provides a method of making a cartilage product comprising providing a cartilage sample and disrupting the cartilage sample by mechanical disruption, enzymatic disruption, or both mechanical disruption and enzymatic disruption; and partially digesting the cartilage sample.

Exemplary methods of manufacture of the present invention have one or more (e.g. each) of the following technical features:

-   -   enzymatic disruption (“partial digestion”) is performed in a         manner that retains a substantial amount of viable cells;     -   the cartilage sample is mechanically disrupted to an extent that         increases flexibility of the cartilage sample;     -   the cartilage sample comprises hyaline cartilage; and     -   the cartilage sample is cryopreserved, e.g. after the step of         disruption.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that retains a substantial amount of viable cells, for example, by limiting digestion to a cell-sparing amount. Optionally, said step of partial digestion comprises digesting collagen. Optionally, said step of partial digestion comprises enzyme digestion, e.g. digestion with a proteinase such as collagenase (e.g. collagenase Type II).

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is mechanically disrupted to an extent that increases flexibility of the cartilage sample. Optionally, the mechanical disruptions are provided which disrupt (i.e. extend through) the entirety of the thickness of the cartilage sample. Optionally, the mechanical disruptions are provided which do not disrupt the entirety of the thickness of the cartilage sample.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample comprises hyaline cartilage. Optionally, the cartilage sample is an articular cartilage sample. Optionally, the cartilage sample is isolated from subchondral bone, calcified cartilage, or both.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is cryopreserved after the step of disruption. Optionally, the step of cryopreservation comprises cryopreserving in a manner that spares viable cells.

In some embodiments, the cartilage products of the present invention are not digested. In other embodiments, the cartilage products of the present invention are partially digested by digestive means including enzymatic (e.g. collegenase, pronase, proteinase K, etc. treatment), biochemical (e.g. papain), thermal (e.g. increased heat), chemical (keratin sulfate, tosyllysylchloromethane), mechanical (perforated), any other means of digestion known by those of skill in the art, and combinations of any two or more of the foregoing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a knee joint from which a product of the present invention can be made.

FIG. 2 depicts layers of articular cartilage and adjacent bone of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 5 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 6 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 7 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 8 depicts viable chondrocytes in cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 9 depicts non-immunogenicity of cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 10 depicts sustained release of chondrogenic factors from cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 11 depicts greater release of chondrogenic factors from porated cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 12 depicts greater release of chondrogenic factors from digested cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 13 depicts greater release of chondrogenic factors from cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention.

FIG. 14 depicts the effect of iodine treatment on cell viability.

FIG. 15 depicts a cartilage product of the present invention. FIG. 15A depicts the names used herein to reference surfaces of the cartilage product. FIG. 15 B illustrates the diameter used for surface area calculation, the height used for thickness calculation, and the optional orientation of layers or gradient.

FIG. 16 depicts cartilage products of the present invention comprising a collagen matrix and bone.

FIG. 17 depicts cartilage products of the present invention that have been subjected to mechanical disruption of the tissue-non-removal type. A) parallel scoring; B) non-aligned scoring; C) Spiral cut.

FIG. 18 depicts cartilage products of the present invention that have been subjected to mechanical disruption of the tissue-removal type. A) rectangular grooves, B) V-cut grooves (tapered inward); C) V-cut grooves (tapered outward); D) intersecting grooves.

FIG. 19 depicts cartilage products of the present invention that have been subjected to mechanical disruption of the hooping type. A) Single hoop; B) Plurality of hoops.

FIG. 20 depicts a cartilage product of the present invention that has been subjected to mechanical disruption of the spiral cut, tissue-removal type. A) Perspective view; B) Top view.

FIG. 21 depicts a cartilage product of the present invention that has been subjected to mechanical disruption of the modified-spiral cut, tissue-removal type. A) Perspective view; B) Top view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used here, the following definitions and abbreviations apply:

“BTB” means bone-tendon-bone graft obtained from the knee joint and comprising the patella, the patellar tendon, and attached tibial bone block.

“Cartilage product”, unless context demands otherwise, means a cartilage product of the instant invention.

“Disruption” means treating a collagen matrix in a manner that provides discontinuities in the matrix. In one embodiment, the disruption comprises enzymatic disruption (“partial disruption”). In another embodiment, the disruption comprises mechanical disruption. In another embodiment, the disruption comprises mechanical disruption and partial digestion.

“DMEM” means Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Media.

“D-PBS” means Dulbecco's Phosphate Buffered Saline.

“ECM” means extracellular matrix, for example, the matrix of cartilage.

“Exemplary” (or “e.g.” or “by example”) means a non-limiting example.

“Mechanical disruption” means providing discrete discontinuities in the collagen matrix by mechanical treatment. The discrete discontinuities can be provided by tissue-removal technique (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 18 through FIG. 21) or by non-tissue-removal technique (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17). In one embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are provided through the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17B, FIG. 17C, and FIG. 19 through FIG. 21). In another embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are provided through less than the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17A and FIG. 18). In one embodiment, a mechanically disrupted collagen matrix does not comprise a circular cartilage disk comprising a removed core (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 19A) if the removed core has a surface area of less than 15% compared to the cartilage disk before said core removal.

“Natural”, in the context of, for example, “natural ECM” or “natural cartilage”, refers to properties exhibited by the ECM or cartilage in its natural state in the donor.

“Partial digestion” (or “limited digestions”) means enzymatic digestion wherein one or more digestible sites remain un-digested. In one embodiment, partial digestion is a cell-sparing digestion such that further digestion otherwise decreases cell viability. In one embodiment, digestion can be monitored by any method, e.g. measuring the release of digestion products from a cartilage sample or by the effect of digestion on the physical properties. In one embodiment, a partially digested collagen matrix (e.g. articular cartilage sample) is substantially intact relative to an undigested collagen matrix, for example, the digested collagen matrix retains its shape throughout digestion.

“QC” means Quality Control

“Substantial amount” when used with respect to therapeutic cells (e.g. chondrocytes) and therapeutic bioactive factors (e.g. chondrogenic factors) in a cartilage product means an amount which provides a measurable therapeutic effect in vivo when the cartilage product is administered, e.g. according to the present treatment methods.

The term “devoid” of a substance as used with respect to the present technology includes products that are “substantially free of” or “substantially devoid of” such substance, and includes products that have less than 5% of the substance, more preferably less than 2%, more preferably less than 1%, more preferably less that 0.5%, including 0% of such substance. For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, devoid of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage, or both subchondral bone and calcified cartilage when used with respect to the present technology includes cartilage products which are substantially free of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage or both, cartilage products which are substantially devoid of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage or both, and products that contain less than 5%, less than 2%, less than 1%, less than 0.5% or 0% of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage or both.

A. Cartilage Products

The present invention provides a cartilage product comprising a collagen matrix having plurality of pores therein. Optionally, the collagen matrix comprises ECM protein fragments, e.g. the collagen matrix is digested hyaline cartilage.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product comprises a matrix having one or more pores therein.

Surprisingly, exemplary cartilage products of the present invention support the regeneration of healthy normal articular cartilage by providing type II collagen and proteoglycans, bioactive factors, and viable chondrocytes.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product is flexible. An exemplary flexible cartilage product can be rolled into an arthroscope cannula, can bend extensively without breaking, and can contour to irregular target sites in a subject. Surprisingly, it has been discovered that a flexible cartilage product with viable cells and factors can be produced by appropriately configuring a) the thickness of the collagen matrix; b) extent of mechanical disruption; and c) the extent of digestion.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product comprises viable cells such as chondrocytes. Optionally, the viable cells are native chondrocytes. Optionally, the viable cells are distributed through the collagen matrix in a gradient. Optionally, the collagen matrix comprises mechanical disruptions extending at least partially through the gradient (e.g. pores provided that are substantially aligned with the gradient or perpendicular to the superior surface, as depicted in FIG. 15).

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is enzymatically disrupted and the ECM protein (e.g. collagen) fragments are substantially shorter than that of native articular cartilage. Additionally or alternatively, a substantial amount of the ECM protein in the collagen matrix is fragmented relative to that of native articular cartilage. Optionally, the ECM protein fragments are produced by partial digestion of a native cartilage, e.g. enzymatic digestion such as collagenase (e.g. Type II) treatment.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product is formulated for cryopreservation, e.g. comprises a cryopreservation medium. Optionally, the cartilage product is cryopreserved.

To illustrate one embodiment of the invention, an examplary cartilage product comprises, as the collagen matrix, a layer (e.g. disk) of hyaline (e.g. articular) cartilage having mechanical disruptions (e.g. spiral cut), wherein the layer of cartilage comprises viable native chondrocytes and collagen fragments produced by partial digestion with a collagen-digesting enzyme such as a collagenase. The layer of cartilage is flexible while retaining its structural integrity. The cartilage product is devoid of subchondral bone and calcified cartilage and comprises a radial layer, a transitional layer, and a tangential layer throughout which a gradient of the viable native chondrocytes are distributed. Optionally, the cartilage product is formulated for cryopreservation.

B. Collagen Matrix

A cartilage product of the present invention comprises a collagen matrix. The collagen matrix can be any extracellular matrix comprising collagen fibrils and bioactive factors. The collagen matrix can be obtained from any source and can be any size and shape. Optionally, the collagen matrix is flexible (e.g. such that it can be rolled or folded and administered via arthroscope cannula).

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix isolated from a subject (natural collagen matrix') or is grown in-vitro.

In one embodiment, the collagen fibrils comprise type II collagen. Optionally, the collagen matrix is hyaline cartilage such as articular cartilage. Optionally, the articular cartilage is condoyle cartilage, femur condoyle cartilage, tibial plateau cartilage, femoral head cartilage, humoral head cartilage, talus cartilage, or acetabulum cartilage. Optionally, the articular cartilage comprises one or more layers of cartilage selected from: a radial layer, a transitional layer, and a tangential layer.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises fragmented ECM proteins. Fragmented ECM proteins are optionally produced by partial digestion of a natural collagen matrix. Optionally, the collagen matrix is partially digested with a proteinase such as a collagen-degrading enzyme. Useful collagen-degrading enzymes include, but are not limited to, for example, collagenase (e.g. Types I-IV, bacterial collagenase), other endopeptidases (e.g. trypsin, papain, pepsin), and exopeptidases (e.g. carboxypeptidase).

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is devoid of subchondral bone, calcified cartilage, or both. If present, subchondral bone and calcified cartilage can otherwise inhibit the flexibility of the collagen matrix. In an alternative embodiment, the cartilage product comprises bone, e.g. a reduced-area plug of bone (relative to the collagen matrix) as depicted in FIG. 16A or a shell of bone as depicted in FIG. 16B.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is derived from articular cartilage and comprises one or more layers of cartilage selected from: a radial layer, a transitional layer, and a tangential layer. As depicted in FIG. 2, native chondrocytes of a natural articular cartilage are distributed across these layers in a gradient from vertical rows of chondrocytes in the radial layer to flattened cells in the tangential layer. Collagen fibrils of the tangential (‘superficial’) layer run parallel to the surface. Collagen fibrils in the radial layer are typically oriented towards (e.g. perpendicular to) the articular surface. Collagen fibers in the transitional layer are typically less packed than that of the radial and tangential layers and arranged obliquely or in a more randomized fashion to the articular surface.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix has a thickness (or ‘height’ as depicted in FIG. 15) of less than about 3 mm. Optionally, the collagen matrix has a thickness of about 0.2 mm to about 2 mm or about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm. The thickness can be measured, for example, perpendicular to layers of the collagen matrix (e.g. distance from the surface of a tangential layer to the surface of a radial layer), as depicted in FIG. 15A. Surprisingly, collagen matrices of reduced thickness and tailored mechanical disruption can provide a flexible cartilage product that can be administered by arthroscopy and easily contoured to an injured tissue site while retaining its capacity to provide a matrix of viable cells and factors.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix has a surface area (e.g. superior or inferior surface, such as the surface of a tangential layer or a radial layer, respectively) having an area of about 0.5 cm² to about 5 cm². Optionally, the collagen matrix has a superior surface and an inferior surface separated by a thickness of less than about 3 mm or less than about 2 mm (e.g. 1 mm to about 1.5 mm).

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is provided in a round shape (e.g. oval or circle), a rectangular shape, or a square shape. An example of a cartilage product comprising a round collagen matrix is depicted in FIG. 15. Optionally, the width (referred to herein as ‘diameter’ regardless of shape) of a collagen matrix is greater than the height (referred to herein as ‘thickness’), e.g. as depicted in FIG. 15.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is a disk, i.e. the diameter (or width) of the collagen matrix surface (e.g. superior or inferior surface) is greater than the thickness (or height of the lateral surface) of the collagen matrix, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 15. Optionally, the pores are provided in the superior surface, the inferior surface, or both.

In one embodiment, relative to an unmodified collagen matrix (e.g. isolated articular cartilage sample) the collagen matrix has enhanced flexibility (e.g. reduced shear modulus) but retains mechanical properties of cartilage. Examples of such properties (e.g. compression strength, Young's modulus) are described in MANSOUR (“Biomechanics of Cartilage” Ch 5; Obtained from the internet URL:

http://www.cartilagehealth.com/images/artcartbiomech.pdf).

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is flexible (e.g. such that it can be folded without breaking) and comprises a Young's modulus of at least about any of: 0.1 MPa, 0.2 MPa, 0.3 MPa, or 0.4 MPa.

C. Mechanical Disruptions

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention comprises mechanical disruptions. The mechanical disruptions can be any discrete discontinuities in the collagen matrix.

In one embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are of the tissue-removal type (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 18 through FIG. 21). Useful mechanical disruptions of the tissue-removal type include: spiral cuts, grooves, cross-grooves, radial cuts, pores, and hoop-forming core cuts (e.g. single or multiple hoop forming cuts). In another embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are of the tissue-non-removal type (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17). Useful mechanical disruptions of the tissue-non-removal type include: scores (e.g. as in FIG. 17A), spiral cuts, cross-scores, radial scores (e.g. as in FIG. 17B), and piercings (e.g. a plurality of piercings imparted with a thin, cylindrical, pointed object).

In one embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are provided through the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17B, FIG. 17C, and FIG. 19 through FIG. 21). In another embodiment, the discrete discontinuities are provided through less than the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17A and FIG. 18).

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are partial mechanical disruptions, i.e. the collagen matrix substantially retains its shape relative to that of an unmodified collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 15 through FIG. 21). In another embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are complete disruptions (e.g. the collagen matrix is minced, e.g. into a plurality of solid pieces, into a viscous form, or into an amorphous form).

D. Spiral Cut

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention comprises a spiral cut collagen matrix. The spiral cut can be any continuous cut that encircles or otherwise circumnavigates the collagen matrix and comprises greater than one full turn. Optionally, the spiral cut extends through the entire thickness of the collagen matrix, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21.

In one embodiment, the spiral cut is provided of the tissue-non-removal type, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17. In another embodiment, the spiral cut is of the tissue-removal type, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21. Optionally, spiral cut collagen matrices of the tissue-non-removal type can construct to fit in a void (e.g. removed cartilage defect in a patient) that is substantially smaller in area (e.g. 90% or less) relative to the collagen matrix (e.g. a spiral cut collagen matrix disk with a diameter of 2cm is configured such that it can be squeezed and constricted down to a diameter of about 1.8 cm).

In one embodiment, the spiral cut comprises at least two turns, at least three turns, at least four turns, or at least five turns. For example, FIG. 17, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 depict collagen matrices comprising a spiral cut with three turns.

In one embodiment, the spiral cut is of the unbranched type (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 20) or the branched type (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 21).

E. Pores

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention comprises a collagen matrix having a plurality of pores. The plurality of pores can be configured in any manner that increases the flexibility of the cartilage and provides a plurality of passageways through which cells and factors can migrate.

The pores can be provided through any surface of the collagen matrix and can extend partially (as in a cavity) or entirely (as in a channel) through the collagen matrix. For example, as depicted in FIG. 15, the pores can be provided through a superior surface, an inferior surface, or both.

According to the present invention, pores in the collagen matrix provide one or more of the following technical features:

-   -   a flexible cartilage product;     -   a cartilage product that has superior fixation; and     -   a cartilage product that facilitates migration of mesenchymal         stem cells (MSCs) and chondrocytes

In one embodiment, plurality of pores is configured to impart flexibility to the collagen matrix. By varying the density and size of the pores, one skilled in the art can produce a flexible collagen matrix according to the present invention. Optionally, the plurality of pores have a diameter of about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm such as about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm (e.g. about 1 mm). Optionally, the collagen matrix comprises a pore density of about 10 to about 500 pores per cm² such as about 10 to about 100 pores per cm² or about 10 to about 60 pores per cm² (e.g. about 36 pores per cm²). Optionally, the collagen matrix comprise a superior or inferior surface having a total pore area from about 3% to about 90% (e.g. about 5% to about 50% or about 10% to about 50%) relative to the total area of said surface. For example, a collagen matrix having pores with a diameter of about 1mm at 36 pores per cm² has a pore area of about 28% relative to that of the total area of the surface.

The plurality of pores optionally imparts improved fixation. Pores can increase the surface area of the collagen matrix and provide better adhesion, for example, facilitating fixation upon application of an adhesive (e.g. fibrin glue such as Tisseel) or allowing greater integration into the target site in a subject to which the cartilage product is optionally administered.

The plurality of pores optionally facilitates migration of MSCs and chondrocytes (e.g. donor cells endogenous to the collagen matrix migrating out of the collagen matrix and cells of the implant recipient migrating into the collagen matrix).

In one embodiment, the pores are channels or cavities. A channel is any pore that extends through two faces (e.g. through a superior surface and an inferior surface) of the collagen matrix. A cavity is any pore that does not extend through two faces of the collagen matrix. Optionally, the pores are arranged in an array, e.g. a two dimensional array. Optionally, the collagen matrix comprises one or more cellular or ECM layers (e.g. radial, tangential, or transitional layers) and the pores extend substantially perpendicularly (i.e. 90°±45°) to the layer(s) or diagonally to the layer(s), or the collagen matrix comprises a gradient of cells and the pores are aligned or substantially parallel (i.e. 0°±45°) with the gradient, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 15.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises a plurality of pores having a diameter selected from: about 0.3 mm to about 2 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.8 mm to about 1.2 mm, or about 1 mm.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises a plurality of pores, wherein about 3% to about 90% of the surface area is porated (e.g. about 3% to about 50% or about 5% to about 50% or about 3% to about 30% or about 5% to about 50%). For example, a collagen matrix comprising cylindrical pores with a 1 mm diameter at a pore density of 36 pores per cm² would comprise about 28 mm² of porated surface area per to cm² of total surface area of the collagen matrix [(0.5 mm pore radius)×(_(TT))×(36 pores/cm²)], i.e. 28% porated surface area.

In one embodiment, the pore size is about 50% to about 150% of the thickness of the collagen matrix or pore length.

Pores can be produced in any manner, for example, mechanical removal of collagen matrix using a drill or tissue punch.

F. Fragmented ECM

According to the present invention, enzymatic disruption (“partial digestion”) is optionally provided in a cartilage product to provide fragmented ECM proteins.

In one embodiment, the fragmented ECM proteins are collagen (e.g. Type II) fragments or proteoglycan fragments. Optionally, the collagen matrix is articular cartilage.

Fragmented ECM proteins can be produced in any manner. Fragmented ECM proteins are optionally produced by partial digestion of a natural collagen matrix (i.e. isolated from a subject). Optionally, the collagen matrix is partially digested with a digestion enzyme (e.g. proteinase) such as, for example, a collagen-degrading enzyme (e.g. collagenase) or a proteoglycan-degrading enzyme (e.g. hyaluranidase).

According to the present invention, partial digestion of a collagen matrix provides one or more of the following technical features:

-   -   a loose ECM that releases and allows migration of cellular         factors and viable cells.     -   a natural ECM retaining viable native cells     -   preservation of physiologic interactions between cells and the         ECM     -   a clean cartilage product devoid of debris     -   a cartilage product comprising ECM fibrils that substantially         retain the packing density of natural cartilage     -   a cartilage product with greater flexibility     -   removes macrophages and reduces immunogenicity

A fragmented ECM provides a loose collagen matrix that releases and allows migration of cellular factors and viable cells. For example, cellular (e.g. chondrogenic) factors can leach out into the surrounding micro environment upon administration to a subject. With the teachings provided herein, one skilled in the art can now tailor digestion to provide such a technical feature.

In one embodiment, the fragmentation of ECM is limited to an amount that retains a substantial amount of viable native cells. Upon further fragmentation, the collagen matrix can prematurely release its population of cells before optional administration of the cartilage product. With the teachings provided herein, one skilled in the art can now tailor digestion to provide such a technical feature.

In one embodiment, the ECM is fragmented in a manner that preserves normal interactions between cells and the ECM. For example, the ECM and/or cellular factors therein activate chondrocytes, i.e. induce a shift from the GO phase to the G1 phase, and also induce MSCs to infiltrate and differentiate into chondrocytes. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that these functions enhance therapeutic efficacy.

In one embodiment, the ECM is fragmented in a manner that preserves normal interactions between bioactive factors and the ECM. For example, bioactive factors are retained at levels to greater than about 50% or greater than about 70% compared to predigestion levels.

In one embodiment, the ECM is fragmented in a manner that cleans the cartilage sample of debris. This microscopic and/or macroscopic debris (e.g. ECM fragment) is present in even greater amounts upon poration of a cartilage sample, and can trigger pain and other adverse responses when administered to a subject if the cartilage sample of the present technology is not cleansed of debris.

In one embodiment, fragmentation of the ECM is limited to an amount that provides fragmented ECM fibrils that substantially retain the packing density of natural cartilage. Such a technical feature provides a cartilage product having mechanical properties of native cartilage.

In one embodiment, fragmentation of the ECM is limited to an amount that provides a collagen matrix that has any (e.g. each) of the following technical features: is visually intact, is flexible (e.g. such that it can be folded or bent without breaking or rolled to fit in an arthroscope), retains viable native cells, retains non-degraded biofactors (e.g. growth factors), and increases the level of biofactors (e.g. growth factors).

In one embodiment, the cartilage product exhibits greater flexibility with the fragmented ECM compared to that of the same collagen matrix without fragmented ECM. Optionally, the cartilage product is flexible such that it can be inserted into a cannula having a diameter not more than 50% of the diameter (or width) of the cartilage product. For example, the cartilage product in the shape of a disk with a diameter of 2 cm can be flexible enough such that it can be rolled into a cannula of an arthroscope (e.g. a cannula with a diameter of less than about 1 cm).

G. Viable Chondrocytes

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention comprises viable chondrocytes. Optionally, the cartilage product is a natural cartilage product (i.e. the collagen matrix is isolated from a subject) and the viable chondrocytes are native, i.e. native to the collagen matrix. Viability can be demonstrated by any means, e.g. through the use of vital stains, phase contrast microscopy, etc.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is derived from articular cartilage and comprises viable chondrocytes that are native (or endogenous) to the articular cartilage. Native chondrocytes are distributed across one or more (e.g. all) layers of articular cartilage selected from: a radial layer, a transitional layer, and a tangential layer. The invention alternatively contemplates collagen matrices having exogenous or non-native (i.e. added) chondrocytes. In one embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises viable chondrocytes at its surface. Optionally, at least 70% of the chondrocytes at the surface of the collagen matrix are viable. In some embodiments, the cartilage product comprises at least about 50% viable cells, alternatively at least 60% viable cells. In some embodiments, the cartilage product comprises at least about 70% viable cells, alternatively about 75% viable cells, alternatively about 80% viable cells.

Surface viable cell percentage can be quantified, for example, by microscopy techniques.

In one embodiment, a portion of the chondrocytes are in the G₀ phase. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that the ECM or ECM factors activate chondrocytes. This activation can be observed as a shift to the G₁ phase from G₀.

Chondrocytes are thought to be important in maintaining cartilage matrix homeostasis in addition to expressing factors that promote chondrogenesis and cartilage repair. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that a superior therapeutic product is obtained by preservation of the cellular and structural organization of native articular cartilage.

Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that the collagen matrix of cartilage products of the present invention preserves the viability of chondrocytes and extends their life-span ex-vivo (including in the recipient subject). In addition, it is believed that, upon administration to a recipient subject, the collagen matrix can induce the recipient's MSCs to infiltrate the collagen matrix (of the cartilage product) and differentiate into chondrocytes, thereby replenishing the cartilage product with chondrocytes.

As detailed in Example 10, cartilage products of the present invention can contain a substantial amount of viable chondrocytes, even after partial digestion and cryopreservation.

A substantial amount of viable chondrocytes is an amount which, when present, enhances the therapeutic efficacy of a cartilage product.

H. Bioactive Factors

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention comprises bioactive factors. Optionally, bioactive factors comprise chondrogenic factors. Optionally, the chondrogenic factors include one or more (e.g. each) of TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3, BMP-2, BMP-7, bFGF, and IGF-1.

Optionally, the cartilage comprises an extracellular matrix comprising collagen type II, hyaluronan, and aggrecan.

Optionally, the cartilage comprises transcription factors, e.g. Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product comprises TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3, BMP-2, BMP-7, bFGF, IGF-1, collagen type II, hyaluronan, aggrecan, Sox5, Sox6, and Sox9.

In one embodiment, the collagen matrix is a natural collagen matrix and the bioactive factors are native to the collagen matrix.

As detailed in Example 16, cartilage products of the present invention can contain bioactive factors (e.g. chondrogenic factors), even after partial digestion and cryopreservation. Additionally or alternatively, cartilage products of the present invention can release bioactive factors when cultured in vivo or in vitro. The amount of a given factor in cartilage product can be determined by a tissue lysate assay, e.g. as detailed in Example 16. The amount of factor released from a cartilage product can be determined by a culture assay, e.g. as detailed in Example 16. For example, as detailed in Example 16 and Table 4, a cartilage product of the present invention can have one or more (e.g. each) of the following technical features:

-   -   a. comprises TGF-β1 in an amount of at least about 11 pg/cm²,         for example, about 11 to about 628 pg/cm².     -   b. comprises TGF-β3 in an amount of at least about 4 pg/cm², for         example, about 4 to about 112 pg/cm².     -   c. comprises BMP-7 in an amount of at least about 3 pg/cm², for         example, about 3 to about 23 pg/cm².     -   d. comprises bFGF in an amount of at least about 169 pg/cm², for         example, about 169 to about 365 pg/cm².     -   e. comprises IGF-1 in an amount of at least about 111 pg/cm²,         for example, about 111 to about 779 pg/cm².     -   f. when cultured, the cartilage product releases TGF-β1 in an         amount of at least about 2617 pg/cm², for example, about 2617 to         about 17818 pg/cm².     -   g. when cultured, the cartilage product releases TGF-β2 in an         amount of at least about 133 pg/cm², for example, about 133 to         about 623 pg/cm².     -   h. when cultured, the cartilage product releases IGF-1 in an         amount of at least about 14 pg/cm², for example, about 14 to         about 2842 pg/cm².

Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that important to efficient cartilage repair, as facilitated by cartilage products, are growth factors, chondrogenic factors, and other bioactive factors which mediate extracellular matrix production and promote chondrogenesis in vivo. For example, TGF-β1-3 promote chondrogenic differentiation and regulate collagen expression; BMP-2 and BMP-7 Induce chondrogenesis of MSCs and stimulate ECM production by chondrocytes; bFGF stimulates proliferation of chondrocytes; IGF-1 induces ECM synthesis; and ECM (Collagen, Hyaluronan, and Aggrecan) mediates mechanical regulation of chondrogenesis.

I. Formulation

According to the present invention, the cartilage product is optionally formulated with a cryopreservation medium.

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprising one or more cell-permeating cryopreservatives, one or more non cell-permeating cryopreservatives, or a combination thereof.

Optionally, the cryopreservation medium comprises one or more cell-permeating cryopreservatives selected from, but not limited to, for example, DMSO, a glycerol, a glycol, a propylene glycol, an ethylene glycol, or a combination thereof.

Optionally, the cryopreservation medium comprises one or more non cell-permeating cryopreservatives selected from, but not limited to, for example, polyvinylpyrrolidone, a hydroxyethyl starch, a polysacharide, a monosaccharides, a sugar alcohol, an alginate, a trehalose, a raffinose, a dextran, or a combination thereof.

Other examples of useful cryopreservatives are described in “Cryopreservation” (BioFiles Volume 5 Number 4-Sigma-Aldrich® datasheet).

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises a cell-permeating cryopreservative, wherein the majority of the cell-permeating cryopreservative is DMSO. Optionally, the cryopreservation medium does not comprise a substantial amount of glycerol.

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises DMSO, e.g. in an amount of about 1% to about 50% DMSO by volume (e.g. about 10%).

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises additional components such as albumin (e.g. HSA or BSA), an electrolyte solution (e.g. Plasma-Lyte, PBS, or saline), or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises 1% to about 20% albumin (e.g. HSA) by weight and about 1% to about 50% cryopreservative by volume (e.g. about 10%) such as DMSO.

J. Non-Immunogenicity

In one embodiment, the cartilage product is substantially non-immunogenic.

Cartilage products of the present invention have one or more technical features that reduce immunogenicity. Examples of such technical features include:

-   -   Absence of non-sequestered cells     -   Presence of immunoprivileged MSC cells and low levels of         circulating immunogenic cells (e.g. macrophages) and TNF-α.     -   Selective killing by cryopreservation

As taught herein, certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a collagen matrix having viable cells such as chondrocytes that are native to the collagen matrix. The invention also contemplates cartilage products having non-native cells such as chondrocytes added to the matrix. While exogenous (and endogenous) chondrocytes are a potential source of immunogenicity, cartilage products of the present invention surprisingly exhibit low or absent immunogenicity. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that chondrocytes (especially native chondrocytes), which are embedded in the collagen matrix, are more effectively sequestered from the surrounding environment in a subject to which the cartilage product is administered, thereby reducing immunogenicity.

In one embodiment, the cartilage product has depleted levels of circulating immunogenic cells and TNF-α. Optionally, such a cartilage product substantially lacks a response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Such a cartilage product can be provided, for example, by performing manufacturing steps of washing/rinsing, digestion, cryopreservation, or any combination thereof.

K. Manufacture

A cartilage product can be produced in any manner. In one embodiment, the invention provides a method of making (“manufacturing”) a cartilage product comprising providing a cartilage sample and disrupting the cartilage sample. The step of disrupting the cartilage sample comprise mechanical disruption, enzymatic disruption (“partial digestion”), or both mechanical disruption and partial digestion.

In one embodiment, the method comprises removing from the cartilage sample subchondral bone, calcified cartilage, or both subchondral bone and calcified cartilage.

In one embodiment, the method comprises cryopreserving the cartilage sample after said steps of porating and partial digestion. Optionally, the step of cryopreservation comprises cryopreserving in a manner that spares viable cells.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that retains a substantial amount of viable cells.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is mechanically disrupted to an extent that increases flexibility of the cartilage sample.

In one embodiment, processing of the cartilage sample is performed in a manner that does not generate a substantial amount of heat. Optionally, cutting of cartilage tissue comprises the use of a low-speed saw or drill and/or a tissue punch.

In one embodiment, the process comprises chilling (e.g. continually or periodically) the cartilage sample.

L. Cartilage sample

The cartilage sample can be obtained from any source and can be provided in any shape, thickness, and surface area. Optionally, the source is a subject such as a human subject. Optionally, the source is a cadaver.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is any cartilage sample comprising type II collagen. Optionally, the cartilage sample is selected from: hyaline cartilage, fibrocartilage, and elastic cartilage.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample comprises hyaline cartilage. Optionally, the cartilage sample is an articular cartilage sample (e.g. obtained from a donor bone). Optionally, the cartilage sample is isolated (i.e. separated) from subchondral bone and/or calcified cartilage. Cartilage can be separated from subchondral bone after removing a cartilage sample in the form of an osteochondral plug (e.g. using a tissue punch) or the cartilage can be separated directly from subchondral bone while present on the donor bone (e.g. by slicing off cartilage from the donor bone). Other useful hyaline cartilages include nasal cartilage, tracheal cartilage, and laryngeal cartilage.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is articular cartilage. Articular cartilage can be obtained from any donor bone. Optionally, the cartilage sample is obtained from long bones such as femur, tibia, fibula, humerus, ulna, radius, or short bones such as the bones of the hands or feet (e.g. talus), flat bones such as pelvic bones (e.g. acetabulum), irregular bones such as vertebrae, and sesamoid bones. Articular cartilage can be obtained from the condoyle of any bone. Optionally, the cartilage sample is obtained as a plug (e.g. 1 cm or 2cm plug). Optionally, the cartilage sample is removed of subchondral bone and/or calcified cartilage.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample comprises fibrocartilage. Optionally, the cartilage sample is obtained from a source selected from: pubic symphysis, annulus fibrosis, intervertebral disc, meniscus, and temporomandibular joint.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample comprises elastic cartilage. Optionally, the cartilage sample is obtained from a source selected from ears, larynx, epiglottis.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is obtained from a mammal, an ungulate, an organism of the Sus genus, a pig, a primate, a higher primate, or a human.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is screened for thickness. Optionally, the thickness is 0.2 mm to about 2.0 mm such as about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm. For example, cartilage samples that are thinner than the minimum thickness can be discarded while cartilage samples that are thicker than the maximum thickness are trimmed down to size. Surprisingly, by reducing the thickness of the cartilage sample and porating the cartilage sample, a flexible cartilage product is obtained that easily contours to an injured tissue site while retaining the capacity to provide a matrix of viable cells and bioactive factors.

In one embodiment, the collagen sample has a surface (e.g. upper (“superior”) or lower (“inferior”) surface) having an area of about 0.5 cm² to about 5 cm². Optionally, the collagen sample has an upper surface and a lower surface separated by a thickness of less than about 2mm (e.g. 1 mm to about 1.5 mm).

In one embodiment, the collagen sample is provided in a round shape (e.g. oval or circle), a rectangular shape, or a square shape.

In one embodiment, obtaining the cartilage sample comprises chilling the sample, e.g. using chilled solvent, a cold room, a cold plate. In one embodiment, obtaining the sample comprises isolating without generating a substantial amount of heat, e.g. using a low speed saw. In some embodiments, chilling comprises the use of an ice water bath.

M. Mechanically Disrupting

A method of producing a cartilage product of the present invention optionally comprises a step of mechanically disrupting the cartilage sample. The step of mechanical disruption can be performed in any manner that imparts discrete discontinuities in the collagen matrix.

Useful methods of mechanical disruption include: cutting (e.g. scoring without removing tissue or cutting with tissue removal), grooving, porating, piercing, and mincing.

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruption comprises removing tissue (e.g. products depicted in FIG. 18 through FIG. 21). Useful mechanical disruptions of the tissue-removal type include: spiral cuts, grooves, cross-grooves, pores, and hoop-forming core cuts. In another embodiment, the mechanical disruption comprises providing discontinuities without removing a substantial amount of tissue (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17). Useful mechanical disruptions of the tissue-non-removal type include: scores, spiral cuts, cross-scores, and piercings.

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruption is performed in a manner that provides discrete discontinuities through the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17B, FIG. 17C, and FIG. 19 through FIG. 21). In another embodiment, the mechanical disruption is performed in a manner that provides discrete discontinuities through less than the entire thickness of the collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 17A and FIG. 18).

In one embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are partial mechanical disruptions, i.e. the collagen matrix substantially retains its shape relative to that of an unmodified collagen matrix (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 15 through FIG. 21). In another embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are complete disruptions (e.g. the collagen matrix is minced, e.g. into a plurality of solid pieces, into a viscous form, or into an amorphous form).

N. Porating

A method of producing a cartilage product of the present invention (“method of manufacture”) optionally comprises a step of porating a cartilage sample. The poration can be conducted in any manner that increases the flexibility of the cartilage and provides a plurality of passageways through which cells and factors can migrate.

In one embodiment, the cartilage is porated using laser poration or mechanical proration.

In one embodiment, the cartilage is porated using mechanical poration. Optionally, the mechanical poration is provided by drilling, punching, hydraulic poration (e.g. high pressure fluid drilling), or combinations thereof. Optionally, the cartilage is porated using a single punch or a multi-punch device.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is porated to an extent that increases flexibility of the cartilage sample. Optionally, the cartilage sample is porated to provide pores having a diameter of about 0.25 mm to about 2 mm (e.g. about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm or about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm) in diameter. Optionally, the cartilage sample is porated to provide about 10 to about 400 pores per cm² such about 10 to about 100 pores per cm² or about 20 to about 60 pores per cm² (e.g. about 36 pores per cm²). Optionally, the cartilage sample comprises a layer of cartilage and the pores pass through the majority (e.g. entirety) of the layer of cartilage.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is porated to an extent of about 10 mm² to about 50 mm² of porated surface area per cm² of surface area of the cartilage sample. For example, a collagen matrix comprising cylindrical pores with a 1 mm diameter at a pore density of 36 pores per cm² would comprise about 28 mm² of porated surface area per cm² [(0.5 mm pore radius)×(π)×(36 pores/cm²)].

In one embodiment, porating the cartilage sample comprises chilling (e.g. continually or periodically) the sample, e.g. using chilled solvent and/or a cold room or a cold plate. In one embodiment, porating the cartilage sample comprises porating the cartilage sample without generating a substantial amount of heat, e.g. using a low speed drill or a tissue punch.

O. Digestion

A cartilage product of the invention is optionally produced by partially digesting a cartilage sample, e.g. using a digestive enzyme such as a proteinase or proteoglycan digesting enzyme.

According to manufacturing methods of the present invention, a step of partial digestion modifies the ECM of the cartilage sample and can be performed in a manner that provides one or more of the following technical features:

-   -   a loose ECM that releases and allows migration of cellular         factors and viable cells.     -   a natural ECM retaining viable native cells     -   preservation of physiologic interactions between cells and the         ECM     -   a clean cartilage product devoid of debris     -   a cartilage product comprising ECM fibrils that substantially         retain the packing density of natural cartilage     -   a cartilage product with greater flexibility     -   removes macrophages and reduces immunogenicity

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that loosens the ECM, e.g. cleaving peptide bonds within collagen. A loose ECM releases and allows migration of cellular factors and viable cells. For example, bio-(e.g. chondrogenic) factors can leach out into the surrounding micro environment upon administration to a subject. With the teachings provided herein, one skilled in the art can now tailor digestion to provide such a technical feature.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that retains a substantial amount of viable native cells, for example, by limiting digestion to a cell-sparing amount. With the teachings provided herein, one skilled in the art can now tailor digestion to provide such a technical feature.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that preserves normal interactions between cells and the ECM. For example, the ECM and/or cellular factors therein activate chondrocytes, i.e. induce a shift from the G0 phase to the G1 phase, and also induce MSCs to infiltrate and differentiate into chondrocytes. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that these functions enhance therapeutic efficacy.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that cleans the cartilage sample of debris. This microscopic and/or macroscopic debris (e.g. ECM fragment) is present in even greater amounts upon poration of a cartilage sample, and can trigger pain and other adverse responses when administered to a subject if the cartilage product of the present technology is not cleansed of debris.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that provides fragmented ECM fibrils that substantially retain the packing density of natural cartilage. For example, partial digestion can be limited to an amount that does not destroy the structural integrity of the cartilage sample. Such a technical feature provides a cartilage product having mechanical properties of native cartilage, for example, to provide a long lasting, weight-bearing cartilage graft.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion is performed in a manner that imparts flexibility to the cartilage product.

In one embodiment, the cartilage sample is digested using a collagen-digesting enzyme (e.g. collagenase or cathepsin) or a proteoglycan-digesting enzyme (e.g. hyaluronidase, aggrecanase, or papain). Optionally, the cartilage sample is digested in a manner that retains cell-matrix interaction. For example, trypsin digestion is typically performed with a chelator such as EDTA to sequester magnesium and calcium, which otherwise inhibit the action of trypsin. Such chelators can dissociate cells from the matrix. Indeed, trypsin itself can cut matrix proteins to which cells adhere or attach. Accordingly, one embodiment of the invention contemplates the use of non-dissociative digests that can partially digest a cartilage sample in a manner that retains native cells such as chondrocytes.

In one embodiment, the step of partial digestion comprises digesting collagen II in a cartilage sample (e.g. articular cartilage). Digestion enzymes which are useful in the partial digestion of type II collagen matrices include: collagenase (e.g. Type II, any of collagenase I-IV, and bacterial collagenase), other endopeptidases (e.g. trypsin, papain, pepsin), and exopeptidases (e.g. carboxypeptidase).

In one embodiment, partial digestion comprises non-enzymatic digestion, for example, steam-based, acid-based, or fenestration-based digestion. Optionally, the non-enzymatic digestion is mechanical digestion, e.g. partial mincing or fenestration-based digestion.

In some embodiments, the cartilage products of the present invention are not digested. In other embodiments, the cartilage products of the present invention are partially digested by digestive means including enzymatic (e.g. collegenase, pronase, proteinase K, etc. treatment), biochemical (e.g. papain), thermal (e.g. increased heat), chemical (keratin sulfate, tosyllysylchloromethane), mechanical (perforated), any other means of digestion known by those of skill in the art, and combinations of any two or more of the foregoing.

P. Cryopreservation

A cartilage product of the present invention may be used fresh or may be preserved for a period of time. Optionally, the cartilage product is subjected to a freeze-thaw cycle, i.e. cryopreserved and then thawed.

In one embodiment, a cartilage product is cryopreserved. A cartilage product may be cryopreserved by incubation at freezing temperatures (e.g. at −80° C.±5° C.) in a cryopreservation medium.

In one embodiment, cryopreservation can comprise a controlled method of freezing, i.e. wherein the cartilage product is held at one or more temperatures intermediate of room temperature and −80° C. Cryopreservation can comprise, for example, incubating the cartilage product at 4° C. for 30 min to 24 hrs (e.g. about 30 to about 90 min), then incubating the cartilage product at about −20° C. to about −40° C. (e.g. about −30° C.) for about 20 min to about 12 hrs (e.g. about 20 to about 60 min) and then incubating at −80° C. until use for example, by reducing the temperature at a rate of about 4° C./min to about −80° C./min. Alternatively, the cartilage product can be rapidly frozen at −80° C. or snap frozen in liquid nitrogen.

The cartilage product may then be thawed for use. Optionally, the cartilage product is cryopreserved in a manner such that cell viability is retained surprisingly well after a freeze-thaw cycle.

In one embodiment, cryopreservation comprises storage in a cryopreservation medium comprising one or more cell-permeating cryopreservatives, one or more non cell-permeating cryopreservatives, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the cryopreservation medium comprises one or more cell-permeating cryopreservatives selected from DMSO, a glycerol, a glycol, a propylene glycol, an ethylene glycol, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the cryopreservation medium comprises one or more non cell-permeating cryopreservatives selected from polyvinylpyrrolidone, a hydroxyethyl starch, a polysacharide, a monosaccharides, a sugar alcohol, an alginate, a trehalose, a raffinose, a dextran, or a combination thereof. Other examples of useful cryopreservatives are described in “Cryopreservation” (BioFiles Volume 5 Number 4—Sigma-Aldrich® datasheet).

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises a cell-permeating cryopreservative, wherein the majority of the cell-permeating cryopreservative is DMSO.

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises DMSO, e.g. about 1% to about 50% DMSO by volume (e.g. about 10%).

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises additional components such as albumin (e.g. HSA or BSA), an electrolyte solution (e.g. Plasma-Lyte), or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the cryopreservation medium comprises 1% to about 20% albumin by weight and about 1% to about 50% cryopreservative by volume (e.g. about 10%). Optionally, the cryopreservative comprises DMSO (e.g. in a majority amount).

Q. Antiseptic Treatment

A cartilage product of the present invention is optionally treated with one or more antiseptic solutions to reduce bioburden. Optionally, the cartilage product is treated with (e.g. incubated in) an antibiotic. Optionally, the cartilage product is treated (e.g. wiped down) with povidone-iodine.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product is treated with an antibiotic, where the antibiotic is gentamicin sulfate (Abraxis Pharmaceutical Products, Schaumburg, Ill.), vancomycin HCl (Hospira Inc., Lake Forest, Ill.), and/or amphotericin B (Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis Mo.).

Optionally, the cartilage product is treated with a fungicidal solution.

R. Screening for Cells, Viability, and Chondrogenic Factors

In one embodiment, a cartilage product is screened for chondrocytes, cell viability, and one or more structural or functional components such as bioactive factors and other ECM components (e.g. chondrogenic factors).

Through the insight of the inventors, it has been discovered that certain components correlate with therapeutic efficacy.

In one embodiment, the components screened for include one or more of the bioactive factors listed in Table 4, the presence of viable chondrocytes, or a combination thereof.

S. Miscellaneous

In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a cartilage product of the present invention comprises treating the cartilage product with one or more solutions. Optionally, the pH of the one or more solutions ranges from 5-10. Optionally, treatment solutions comprise one or more of: saline, PBS, Plasmalyte, and water.

T. Methods of Use

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention is used to treat an injured tissue in a subject. The injured tissue can be any injured tissue. A method of treatment may be provided, for example, by administering to a subject in need thereof, a cartilage product of the present invention.

In one embodiment, the injured tissue is cartilage. Optionally, the injured tissue is articular cartilage. Optionally, the method comprises removing injured cartilage at and administering the cartilage product to the site at which the injured cartilage was removed. Optionally, the step of removing comprises removing a plug comprising the injured tissue and the cartilage product is cut or shaped (or both) to fit the void left by removing the plug (e.g. 2 cm diameter plug is removed and replaced with a 2 cm diameter cartilage product in the shape of said plug).

In one embodiment, the injured tissue is articular cartilage and the method further comprises microfracturing the injured tissue site, e.g. removing damaged articular cartilage followed by physically insulting the underlying subchondral bone to exposed bone marrow and create bleeding. Optionally, the cartilage product is placed on the subchondral bone after microfracturing.

Microfracturing is a technique that can stimulate healing by forming a blood clot, thereby introducing inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and MSCs. Microfracturing alone results in the formation of fibrocartilage comprising collagen type I and has poor biomechanical performance and abnormal bone growth resulting in osteoarthritis. Surprisingly, through the insight of the inventors, it has been discovered that the present cartilage products overcome these deficiencies by providing a type II collagen matrix with viable chondrocytes to promote chondrogenesis of the MSCs introduced by microfracturing.

In one embodiment, a cartilage product of the present invention is administered arthroscopically. Surprisingly, a flexible cartilage product of the invention can be easily administered arthroscopically (i.e. is flexible such that it can be administered through an arthroscope cannula) and adapts to contours at the site of administration, e.g. contours of chondral surfaces.

In one embodiment, a cartilage product is fixed at the site of administration. Optionally, the cartilage product if fixed by an adhesive (e.g. fibrin glue) or by a mechanical device (e.g. a pin such as a bioresorbable pin).

Surprisingly, through the insight of the inventors, cartilage products of the present invention provide greater healing and can be used to treat injuries of larger sizes.

Surprisingly, through the insight of the inventors, cartilage products provide a collagen matrix with native mechanical and functional properties that is efficiently integrated into the cartilage at the target site. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the superior healing capacity of cartilage products taught herein is due, in part to complex interactions between the donor matrix (cartilage product), donor cells, recipient (treated subject) cells, and recipient matrix. This is far superior to prior therapies such as autologous chondrocyte implantation which are typically only palliative.

EXAMPLES 1. Isolation of Femoral Condyles and Tibial Plateau.

A human knee joint was obtained, as depicted in FIG. 1.

The outer surfaces of the knee joint were cleaned with iodine (10% povidione-iodine solution, Purdue, “Betadine”) without contacting the cartilage with iodine. The knee joint was dissected to separate the femur, tibia and fibula without damaging the cartilage surfaces. Soft tissue (adipose, muscle, fascia, ligaments and tendons) were removed to expose the articular cartilage surfaces on tibial plateau and femoral condyles.

The portions containing the articular cartilage (tibial plateau and the condyles of the femur) were chilled by placing in chilled saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride irrigation solution, USP) on a cold plate.

2. Isolating Cartilage Plugs

Femur condoyles and tibial plateau were obtained as detailed in Example 1. Osteochondral plugs having diameters of about 1 cm or about 2 cm were obtained from the femur condoyles and tibial plateau. During isolation of the plugs, the condoyles and tibial plateau were kept moist and chilled by periodic immersion in chilled saline or wiped with a wipe soaked in chilled saline. The isolated plugs were then chilled by placement in chilled saline.

The osteochondral plugs were obtained using a tissue punch while avoiding any areas of damaged cartilage. Specifically, tissue punches with diameters of 1 cm or 2 cm were used to remove whole plugs of cartilage and underlying bone from the articular surface.

3. Isolating a Cartilage Sample from Subchondral Bone and Calcified Cartilage.

Osteochondral plugs were obtained as detailed in Example 2. The subchondral bone and calcified cartilage was removed from the osteochondral plugs to provide cartilage samples in the form of cartilage disks. During this process, the cartilage was chilled periodically with chilled saline to prevent overheating.

Specifically, each osteochondral plug was held securely and the subchondral bone layer was cut (removed) using a sagittal saw with a bent angle blade from the layer of cartilage. Once the subchondral bone was removed, any remaining bone and calcified cartilage was shaved from the underside of the cartilage discs. To prevent overheating, the tissue was frequently immersed in chilled saline throughout the sawing and shaving process. This process was repeated for each of the cartilage disks.

4. Sizing of Cartilage Samples

Isolated cartilage samples in the form of cartilage disks were obtained as detailed in Example 3, and then sized to increase their flexibility. The thickness of cartilage samples was measured using a caliper or disc thickness gauge. Disks that were thicker than about 1.5 mm were trimmed down to about 1.5 mm. Disks thinner than about 1 mm were discarded.

5. Porating a Cartilage Sample

Cartilage samples (cartilage disks) were obtained and sized as detailed in Example 4 and then porated to provide a cartilage layer (disk) having pores of about 1 mm in diameter with a pore density of about 36 pores/cm² as depicted in FIG. 15.

Specifically, a pore pattern (a perforated stainless steel screen) was placed over the cartilage sample and a 1 mm biopsy punch was used to punch out the pores (holes) of cartilage through the pattern. The porated cartilage sample was then chilled by immersion in chilled saline.

6. Partial Digestion of a Cartilage Sample

Cartilage samples (cartilage disks) were obtained as detailed in Example 5 and then digested with Type II collagenase.

Specifically, the collagenase was formulated in DMEM (200 units/ml of collagenase type II, Sigma). The porated cartilage samples were incubated in the collagenase suspension for 30±2 minutes at 37° C.±2° C. The collagenase solution was removed and the disks were rinsed with chilled saline.

7. Antibiotic Treatment of a Cartilage Product

Cartilage samples (cartilage disks) were obtained as detailed in Example 7 and then incubated antibiotic solution containing of gentamicin sulfate (50 μg/mL; Abraxis Pharmaceutical Products, Schaumburg, Ill.), vancomycin HCl (50 μg/mL; Hospira Inc., Lake Forest, Ill.), and amphotericin B (2.5 μg/mL; Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo.) in DMEM at 37° C. ±2° C. for 18 hrs to 48 hr. Following the incubation, the antibiotic solution was removed and the disks were rinsed in chilled saline.

8. Cryopreservation

Cartilage products were obtained as detailed in Example 8 and cryopreserved in a cryopreservation solution.

The cryopreservation solution contained 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (Bioniche Teo. Inverin Co) and 5% human serum albumin (HSA; Baxter) in PlasmaLyte-A (Baxter Healthcare Corp.).

For each cartilage product, a vial was filled with about 7 ml of the cryopreservation solution and a cartilage product was transferred into the vial using forceps. The cartilage product was wiped to remove any residual liquid (e.g. saline solution) prior to placement in the cryopreservation solution. A stopper was placed in the vial containing the cryopreservation solution and the cartilage product.

The vial was sealed after capping, crimping, and bagging the vial, and then cryopreserved at about −80° C. by placing the vial in an automated freezer.

The freezer was programed to reduce the temperature in a gradual and step-wise manner using the following temperature program:

Step 1 reduce temperature to 4° C. at 4.0° C./m

Step 2 hold temperature for 60 m at 4° C.

Step 3 reduce temperature to −30° C. at 1.0° C./m

Step 4 hold temperature at −30° C. Hold for 30 m

Step 5 reduce temperature to −80° C. at 4.0° C./m

Step 6 hold temperature at −80° C.

9. Cartilage Product

Cartilage products were produced by isolating, porating, digesting, and cryopreserving a cartilage sample using the method detailed in Example 1 through Example 8. The cartilage products have a natural structural organization and promote proper articular cartilage repair. Surprisingly, therapeutically active cartilage products have the following technical features:

-   -   contain viable native chondrocytes having a capacity for         chondrogenesis     -   contain bioactive factors     -   are non-immunogenic     -   provide a flexible repair matrix having a natural structural         organization         10. Viable Chondrocytes after Cryopreservation Using Various         Freezing Methods.

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for viable chondrocytes after cryopreservation.

Various freezing methods were investigated to determine their effect on cell viability. Cartilage products were formulated in a cryopreservation medium comprising 10% Dimethyl Sulfuric oxide (DMSO) and 5% Human Serum Albumin (HSA) in plasmalyte-A (sodium chloride, sodium gluconate, sodium acetate, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride).

In a first set of experiments, different cryopreservation methods were tested to determine the effect on preservation viable cells within the cartilage product.

Method 1: Hold the cartilage product at 4° C. to allow time for equilibration (i.e. penetration of cryosolution into the tissue), followed by placing the product in a styrofoam box and freezing in a −80° C. freezer which results in a uniform cooling rate of about −0.5° C./min.

Method 2, Step:

-   -   1. Reduce the temperature in a step-wise manner:     -   2. reduce temperature to 4° C. at 4.0° C./m     -   3. hold temperature for 60 m at 4° C. for equilibration     -   4. reduce temperature to −30° C. at 1.0° C./m     -   5. hold temperature at −30° C. Hold for 30 m     -   6. reduce temperature to −80° C. at 4.0° C./m     -   7. hold temperature at −80° C.

To demonstrate the presence of viable cells, the cartilage products were stained using a LIVE/DEAD® Viability/Cytotoxicity kit (Molecular Probes Inc., Eugene, Oreg.) to qualitatively assess cell viability. Staining was performed as per the manufacturer's protocol. Thin portions of cartilage products (e.g. approximately 0.5 cm×0.5 cm×0.02 cm) were thawed in a 37° C. water bath and used for analysis. Evaluation of stained tissue was performed using a fluorescence microscope. An intense uniform green fluorescence indicated the presence of live cells, and a bright red fluorescence indicated the presence of dead cells.

As depicted in FIG. 3, cartilage products cryopreserved by the stepwise method (Method 2; FIG. 3b ) comprise enhanced levels of viable chondrocytes relative cartilage products cryopreserved using a method comprising a single equilibration step followed by gradual cooling (Method 1; FIG. 3a ). Chondrocytes are the predominant cell type present within articular cartilage and are integral in maintaining cartilage matrix homeostasis. Additionally, chondrocytes express factors that promote chondrogenesis and cartilage repair. It is quite surprising that viable chondrocytes remain following cryopreservation as several attempts have been cited in the literature to cryopreserve cartilage with little success in preserving viable cells once thawed (e.g. Acosta et al, 2007. Clin Orthop Relat Res; 460:234-9).

In a second set of experiments, the duration of equilibration was tested for its effect on the level of viable chondrocytes in thawed cartilage products. Specifically, cell viability was accessed after cryopreservation using method 2 (FIG. 4a ) and compared to methods of cryopreservation that substituted a 2 hour equilibration step (FIG. 4b ) or 4 hour equilibration step (FIG. 4c ) for the 1 hour equilibration step at 4° C. Surprisingly, as depicted in FIG. 4, a 1 hour equilibration step provided comparable (or better) cell viability to that of 2 hour and 4 hour equilibrations.

11. Viable Chondrocytes after Cryopreservation in Various Cryopreservation Media

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for viable chondrocytes after cryopreservation. Various cryopreservation media were investigated to determine their effect on cell viability.

In a first experiment, cartilage products were formulated in a cryopreservation medium containing either 10% or 20% DMSO in 5% HSA in plasmalyte A. LIVE/DEAD® staining was performed on thawed cartilage products of the final cartilage product in the manner detailed in Example 10. The results are depicted in FIG. 5. There was no qualitative difference in cell viability between 10% (FIG. 5A) and 20% DMSO (FIG. 58). Accordingly, the cartilage product can be formulated in reduced concentrations of cryopreservation medium to provide products with viable chondrocytes upon thawing.

In a second experiment, cartilage products were formulated in a cryopreservation medium containing either 0% or 5% HSA and 10% DMSO in 5% HSA in plasmalyte A. LIVE/DEAD® staining was performed on thawed cartilage products of the final cartilage product in the manner detailed in Example 10. The results are depicted in FIG. 6. In this study, no remarkable difference was observed in cell viability between 0% (FIG. 6A) and 5% HSA (FIG. 6B). However, through inventor insight regarding the effect of HSA on long term stability of cryopreserved tissues, HSA is optionally included.

In a third experiment, cartilage products were formulated in a cryopreservation medium containing 10% DMSO+5% HSA solution in either plasmalyte-A or normal saline. LIVE/DEAD® staining was performed on thawed cartilage products of the final cartilage product in the manner detailed in Example 10. The results are depicted in FIG. 7. The results did not demonstrate a remarkable difference in cell viability between plasmalyte-A (FIG. 7A) and normal saline (FIG. 7B). However, through inventor insight, plasmalyte-A is optionally included because it contains salts and minerals (e.g. sodium chloride, sodium gluconate, sodium acetate, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride) that may be beneficial for long term stability of the cartilage product during cryogenic storage. A useful cryosolution for cartilage products of the present invention include 10% DMSO+5% HSA in plasmalyte-A.

These results indicate that the cartilage products taught herein contain viable chondrocytes after a freeze/thaw cycle when formulated in various cryopreservation media.

12. Sustained Viability of Cells after thawing

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for viable chondrocytes after cryopreservation. Cell viability was determined at various time points after thawing cartilage products.

Cartilage products were formulated in a cryopreservation medium containing either 10% DMSO in 5% HSA in plasmalyte A. After cryopreservation and thawing, cartilage products were cultured in DMEM +1% HSA+antibiotic/antimycotic for up to 14 days. At 0 days (FIG. 8A), 7 days (FIG. 8B) and 14 days (FIG. 8C) of culturing, cartilage products were evaluated for LIVE/DEAD® staining in the manner detailed in Example 10. As depicted in FIG. 8, chondrocytes were viable during the 14 day culture period after a freeze/thaw cycle. Thus, cartilage products of the present invention provide a cellular component that contributes to therapeutic efficacy.

13. Quantitative Evaluation of Cell Viability

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for cell number and cell viability after cryopreservation.

Cryopreserved cartilage products were thawed and thin sections were stained with LIVE/DEAD® staining as detailed in Example 10. Viable and dead chondrocytes were visualized under a 10× magnification lens and counted as indicated by either green or red fluorescence, respectively, within a 0.38 mm² field. Three random sections were analyzed from four separate donors. As detailed in Table 1, the average number of viable cells was 64,989 cells/cm² with cell viability of 70.5%. This data indicates that cartilage products of the present invention can have 70% viability.

TABLE 1 Cell Viability Live cells/cm² Dead cells/cm² Viability Donor 50 Section 1 46,579 8,421 85.0% Section 2 38,947 10,000 79.6% Average 42,763 9,211 82.3% Donor 53 Section 1 95,789 13,421 87.7% Section 2 61,316 17,632 77.7% Section 3 67,895 53,158 56.1% Average 75,000 28,070 72.8% Donor 54 Section 1 57,632 5,789 90.9% Section 2 66,316 11,081 85.7% Section 3 76,579 9,211 89.3% Average 66,842 8,694 89.3% Donor 55 Section 1 83,158 82,368 50.2% Section 2 63,947 18,684 77.4% Section 3 78,947 87,895 47.3% Average 75,351 62,982 54.5% Total Average 64,989 27,239 70.5%

14. Flexible Cartilage Product

In one embodiment, cartilage products of the present invention exhibit enhanced flexibility allowing them to be administered arthroscopically. Surprisingly, by poration and optional digestion, a cartilage product can be made flexible enough to be threaded through an arthroscopic cannula; this is in contrast native articular cartilage which is normally hard with very little ability to flex without breakage.

Various pore sizes and pore densities were evaluated to determine their effect on flexibility and capacity for use in arthroscopy. Cartilage products were produced using the method detailed in Example 4 and processed further by poration alone or poration and digestions. Two different pore sizes were tested, 0.6 mm and 0.9 mm diameter pores. Three different pore densities were tested: 12, 25 and 50 pores/cm². In addition, a 30 minute collagenase digestion was also tested to evaluate the effect of digestion on the cartilage product. Various combinations of treatment conditions (treatments A-L) were evaluated, as detailed in Table 2. Each of the cartilage products produced by treatments A-L is an exemplary cartilage product of the present invention.

Specifically, each of treatment conditions A-L was labeled with a corresponding letter and 6 blinded evaluators were asked to rate the cartilage product for flexibility on a scale from 1-5 (1=most flexible and 5=hardest and least flexible). The results are depicted in Table 3. The results indicate that a larger pore size (0.9 mm diameter) and greater pore frequency (50 pores/cm²) yielded the most flexible cartilage product. In this experiment, collagenase treatment did not demonstrate a remarkable difference in flexibility. However, in other experiments (data not shown), users observed much more marked change in flexibility due to collagenase treatment.

TABLE 2 Treatment Conditions Treatment Description A 0.6 mm pores, 12 pores/cm² B 0.6 mm pores, 25 pores/cm² C 0.6 mm pores, 50 pores/cm² D 0.9 mm pores, 12 pores/cm² E 0.9 mm pores, 25 pores/cm² F 0.9 mm pores, 50 pores/cm² G 0.6 mm pores, 12 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment H 0.6 mm pores, 25 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment I 0.6 mm pores, 50 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment J 0.9 mm pores, 12 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment K 0.9 mm pores, 25 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment L 0.9 mm pores, 50 pores/cm² + collagenase treatment

TABLE 3 Flexibility of Cartilage Products After Various Treatment Conditions Con- dition Eval#1 Eval#2 Eval#3 Eval#4 Eval#5 Eval#6 Aver- age A 5 5 4 5 5 5 4.8 B 5 4 4 5 5 5 4.7 C 4 4 4 3 3 3 3.5 D 5 4 3 4 4 2 3.7 E 4 4 3 3 3 1 3.0 F 3 3 2 2 2 1 2.2 G 5 5 5 5 5 5 5.0 H 5 5 5 5 5 5 5.0 I 4 4 5 4 4 3 4.0 J 5 4 4 4 3 2 3.7 K 4 4 3 3 4 1 3.2 L 3 3 2 2 2 1 2.2

15. Non-Immunogenicity of Cartilage Products

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for immunogenicity. Specifically, secretion of TNF-α by cartilage products in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to determine immunogenicity. The secretion of TNF-α of cryopreserved cartilage products of the present invention was compared to that of raw (fresh) cartilage products.

Pieces (0.785 cm²) of cartilage products (raw vs. cryopreserved) were placed in tissue culture medium and exposed to bacterial LPS (1 μg/mL, Sigma) for 20-24 hr. After 24 hours, tissue culture media were collected and tested for the presence of TNF-α using a TNF-α ELISA kit (R&D Systems) according to manufacturer's protocol. Human hPBMCs, known to contain monocytes that secrete high levels of TNF-α upon LPS stimulation, were used as a positive control in the assay. hPBMCs and cartilage products without LPS were also included as controls in the analysis.

The results are depicted in FIG. 9. Non-cryopreserved cartilage products (“raw product”) provided substantial levels of TNF-α in response to LPS while cryopreserved cartilage products (“final product”) did not provide substantial levels of TNF-α in response to LPS, indicating that the manufacturing process eliminates immunogenicity of cartilage samples. Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that viable functional macrophages are the source of immunogenicity in the unprocessed cartilage.

Surprisingly, these results indicate that cartilage products can be selectively depleted of macrophages to reduce immunogenicity of allogeneic implants.

16. Bioactive Factors in Cartilage Products

Cartilage products from Example 9 were analyzed for the presence of bioactive factors. Specifically, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs) were used to analyze tissue extracts and factors released in cultured supernatants of the cartilage products.

For the tissue extract assay, cryopreserved cartilage products of Example 9 were thawed in a 37° C. water bath and removed from the cryopreservation medium followed by a PBS rinse. Each product was then finely minced and snap frozen in a homogenization tube in a liquid nitrogen bath. One pre-cooled 5 mm steel bead was added to each tube and homogenized using a Qiagen Tissue Lyser according to the manufacture's recommendations in 1 ml homogenization media. Homogenates were then spun down at 16000 g for 10 minutes using a microcentrifuge. Supernatants were collected and stored at −80° C. until analyzed by ELISA for protein expression. The supernatant volume was approximately equal to that of the initial volume of homogenization media (1 ml).

For the factor release assay, cryopreserved cartilage products were thawed in a 37° C. water bath and removed from the cryopreservation medium followed by a PBS rinse. Each cartilage product was plated onto a well of a 12-well dish and 2 ml of growth media (DMEM+1% HSA+antibiotic/antimycotic) was added and incubated at 37° C. for up to 14 days. After incubation, tissue and culture media were transferred to a 15 ml conical tube and centrifuged at 2000 rpm for 5 min. Culture supernatant was collected analyzed by ELISA for protein expression. The supernatant volume was approximately equal to that of the initial volume of growth media (2 ml).

Table 4 lists examples of chondrogenic factors detected in the tissue extract and factor release assays. Each expression value is provided in terms of amount of factor per supernatant volume per superior surface area (identified in FIG. 15) of the cartilage product (pg/ml/cm²) and amount of factor per superior surface area of the cartilage product (pg/cm²).

TABLE 4 Chondrogenic Factors Range of factors Range of released in culture expression in supernatants (adjusted tissue lysates per cm² of tissue) Factor (pg/cm²) (pg/ml) TGF-β1  10.8-627.8 2616.6-17818  TGF-β2 TBD 133-623 TGF-β3  3.98-112.1 TBD BMP-2 TBD TBD BMP-7 3.33-23.3 TBD bFGF 168.8-365  TBD IGF-1 111-779  14-2842 ECM (Collagen type II, TBD TBD Hyaluronan, Aggrecan)

Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that bioactive factors (e.g. growth factor proteins) that mediate extracellular matrix production and promote chondrogenesis are important to efficient cartilage repair as facilitated by cartilage products of the present technology.

Surprisingly, these results indicate that the cartilage product comprises a variety of chondrogenic factors that facilitate therapeutic value in articular cartilage repair.

17. Sustained Release of Proteins from Cartilage Products

Cartilage products of the present invention can release factors into the microenvironment by cells or tissues to enhance their functional activity.

To measure the amount or proteins released, cartilage products of Example 9 were cultured in culture media between 7-21 days and supernatants were collected and key proteins were quantified by ELISA. The results are depicted in FIG. 10, which indicate that the cartilage products produce and release TGF-β1 and TGF-bβ into the supernatant for at least 21 days. These data suggest that the cartilage product has the ability to produce and sustain chondrogenic growth factors levels over time due to the presence of viable chondrocytes and dense ECM.

18. Factor Release from Porated Cartilage Products

The effect of poration versus intact cartilage products on protein was investigated. Cartilage products were generated as detailed in Example 9 except that the poration parameters were modified. Half the products were porated between 36-50 pores/cm² while the rest were kept intact with no poration. The amount of TGF-β1 was measured by ELISA from supernatants of both conditions of cartilage products cultured for 7 days. The results are depicted in FIG. 11, which indicate that the amount of TGF-β1 released from porated cartilage implants is greater than intact cartilage products. These data indicate that not only do the porations within the product contribute to the flexibility of the product but poration also supports greater release of chondrogenic factors. Without being bound by theory, the inventors speculate that the enhanced release is due to the increased surface area created by the pores.

19. Factor Release from Digested Cartilage Products

The effect of digestion of cartilage products on protein release was investigated. Cartilage products were generated as detailed in Example 9 except that the digestion parameters were modified. Half the products did not undergo the 30 minute collagenase digestion prior to cryopreservation. The amount of TGF-β1 released was measured by ELISA from supernatants of both conditions of products cultured for 14 days. The results are depicted in FIG. 12 which demonstrates that the amount of TGF-01 released from collagenase digested cartilage products is greater than non-digested cartilage products. These data indicate that not only does collagenase digestion contribute to the flexibility and cleanliness of the product but digestion also supports greater release of beneficial proteins to the microenvironment.

20. TGF-β Factor Release From Cryopreserved Cartilage Products Containing

Live Cells

The effect of cryopreservation on protein release was investigated. Cartilage products were generated as detailed in Example 9 (i.e. cryopreserved). Next, some cartilage products underwent an additional three freeze thaws in H₂0 to kill all the cells within the product (“devitalization”). As a final step, all cartilage products were thawed and cultured in separate wells in growth media for 21 days.

The amount of TGF-β1 spontaneously released into the media was measured by ELISA from supernatants of both conditions of cartilage products cultured for the 21 days. The results are depicted in FIG. 13, which demonstrates that the amount of factor (TGF-β1) released from cryopreserved cartilage products containing live cells is greater than devitalized cartilage products all throughout the 21 day culture. These data indicate that cryopreserved cartilage products contain viable cells that continue to produce and contribute beneficial factors such as TGF-β1 to the microenvironment as compared to cartilage without living cells.

21. Cell Viability after Povidone-Iodine Treatment of Cartilage Products

Efforts to optimize the aseptic processing of donor tissue are important for therapeutic use (and, e.g., in order to comply with the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and tissue bank regulations regarding tissue product safety). To minimize incoming bioburden carried by the donor tissue, cartilage products were treated with an overnight antibiotic incubation prior to cryopreservation, as detailed in Example 7. To further decrease bioburden of the cartilage product, povidone-iodine treatment was tested to observe any changes in cell viability or protein expression. Povidone-iodine is a potent antiseptic widely used to in the clinic to cleanse and decontaminate surgical surfaces.

Briefly, cartilage products were produced as detailed in Example 9, however, prior to overnight antibiotic incubation, cartilage products were submerged in a povidone-iodine bath for 1 sec and then immediately washed in saline 3 times. Cartilage products then followed the normal antibiotic incubation and cryopreservation process. To assess the effect of povidone-iodine treatment, cell viability (LIVE/DEAD® staining) was analyzed as detailed in Example 10.

The results are depicted in FIG. 14. Three concentrations of povidone-iodine were tested, 10% povidone-iodine (FIG. 14A), 5% povidone-iodine (FIG. 14B), 1% povidone-iodine (FIG. 14C), and 0% povidone iodine as a control (FIG. 14D). The LIVE/DEAD® staining of thawed cartilage products revealed that with increasing concentrations of povidone-iodine, cell viability also decreased compared to the control untreated cartilage product.

22. Treatment of Chondral Defects in Goats with Cartilage Products

In one embodiment, the efficacy of a cartilage product is tested in an animal model, e.g. an animal model of focal chondral defects.

Briefly, focal chondral defects are induced into stifle joints of a goat and then treated with microfracture alone or microfracture with cartilage products (as produced in Example 9). At 3, 6 and 12 months, joints are collected and repair tissue is analyzed for volume of defect filling as well as collagen type II staining indicating formation of articular cartilage repair tissue. In addition, goats can be evaluated for safety of the product by monitoring for inflammation or general discomfort of the animal throughout the duration of the study.

Cartilage products of the present technology substantially increase cartilage repair according to at least one or more of the following non-limiting criteria.

-   -   Safety     -   Gross morphology     -   Quality of repair tissue relative to native surrounding tissue     -   Integration of repair tissue     -   Histological evaluation     -   Extracellular matrix staining     -   Defect volume filling     -   Mechanical evaluation     -   Indentation testing of repair tissue     -   Repair tissue evaluation via O'Driscoll grading system         23. Chondrogenesis of Viable Cells within Cartilage Products

This study demonstrates that the viable cells within the cartilage product are functional and have the potential to lay down healthy ECM that will contribute to proper cartilage repair.

Chondrocytes are isolated and expanded from cartilage products of the present invention. Prolonged in vitro culturing of chondrocytes results in dedifferentiation of some cells (e.g. to a more primitive fibroblastic lineage). Next, these cells are placed in a differentiation medium (e.g. containing growth factors). Over time, these cells demonstrate chondrogenesis in vitro.

24. Gene Expression of Chondrocytes within Cartilage Products

Cartilage products are generated as detailed in Example 9 (except, with and without cryopreservation). Chondrocytes within the cartilage product are examined for the expression of essential genes that stimulate functionally active chondrocytes. Substantial expression levels of the following are detected: collagen type II, aggrecan, SOX5, SOX6, and SOX9.

25. The Stimulatory Effect of Chondrocytes in Cartilage Products on Exogenous MSCs.

Isolated mesenchymal stem cells (e.g. from a different donor) are co-cultured with chondrocytes isolated from cartilage products of the present invention.

The chondrocytes stimulate MSCs to differentiate to chondrocytes and stimulate the resultant chondrogenesis in this model. These results demonstrate that therapeutic efficacy of cartilage products of the present invention is due, in part, to the stimulatory effect of chondrocytes of the cartilage product on recipient MSC cells.

26. Spiral Cut Cartilage Products

Cartilage products are produced according to the method detailed in Example 9 except that, rather than porated, the cartilage samples are spiral cut with either removal of tissue (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 20 or FIG. 21) or without removal of tissue (e.g. as detailed in FIG. 17C). Additional cartilage products are produced using the same method except that the step of partial digestion is eliminated.

The spiral cut cartilage products are flexible and can conform to a target site in a patient and can easily be administered via arthroscope.

The spiral cut cartilage products show efficacy in a model of chondral defects, as detailed in Example 22.

After a period of time, the implanted spiral cut cartilage products and surrounding host tissue are removed and analyzed, and using appropriate markers, one or more of the following is observed:

-   -   a. integration into host cartilage     -   b. infiltration of host cells and ECM rich in type II collagen;     -   c. substantial expression of bioactive factors such as         chondrogenic factors     -   d. substantial levels chondrocytes     -   e. substantial expression levels of collagen type II, aggrecan,         SOX5, SOX6, and SOX9.

The spiral cut cartilage products show superior efficacy when treating subjects (e.g. cartilage defects). Due, in part, to the enhanced flexibility provided by the spiral cut, larger (e.g. greater thickness, greater area, or greater volume) cartilage products can be produced that can be easily manipulated and conform to a target site (e.g. void remaining after removal of a cartilage defect). Due, in part, to the configuration discontinuities (spiral cut), the cartilage product can expand or contract (e.g. laterally) in vivo to provide enhanced integration into host cartilage.

27. Mechanically Disrupted Cartilage Products

Cartilage products are produced according to the method detailed in Example 9 except that, rather than porated, the cartilage samples are mechanically disrupted using aligned cuts, radial cuts, intersecting cuts, hoop-forming cuts, or multiple hoop-forming cuts. Each type of mechanical disruption was performed at least twice on different cartilage samples, once with removal of tissue (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19) and once without removal of tissue (e.g. as detailed in FIG. 17). Additional cartilage products are produced using the same method except that the step of partial digestion is eliminated.

The mechanically disrupted cartilage products have the following superior properties, which are present to even a greater extent in the partially-digested products.

The mechanically disrupted cartilage products are flexible and can conform to a target site in a patient and can easily be administered via arthroscope.

The mechanically disrupted cartilage products show efficacy in a model of chondral defects, as detailed in Example 22.

After a period of time, the implanted mechanically disrupted cartilage products and surrounding host tissue are removed and analyzed, and using appropriate markers, one or more of the following is observed:

-   -   a. integration into host cartilage     -   b. infiltration of host cells and ECM rich in type II collagen;     -   c. substantial expression of bioactive factors such as         chondrogenic factors     -   d. substantial levels chondrocytes     -   e. substantial expression levels of collagen type II, aggrecan,         SOX5, SOX6, and SOX9.

The citations provided herein are hereby incorporated by reference for the cited subject matter.

Further embodiments of the present invention can be found in the following paragraphs.

In some embodiments, the present technology provides a cartilage product comprising a disrupted collagen matrix.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product contains collagen matrix comprises enzymatic disruptions.

In some embodiments, the collagen matrix is collagenase-digested, optionally wherein the collagen matrix is collagenase II-digested.

In some embodiments, the present technology provides a cartilage product wherein the collagen matrix comprises mechanical disruptions. In some embodiments, the mechanical disruptions are partial mechanical disruptions, wherein the collagen matrix is substantially intact. In yet other embodiments, the mechanical disruptions are selected from: spiral cut, grooves, scores, fenestrations, and pores. In further embodiments, the mechanical disruptions may be full mechanical disruptions, optionally wherein the collagen matrix minced. In some embodiments, the mechanical disruptions are of the tissue-removal type. In another embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are of the tissue-non-removal type.

In yet another embodiment, the cartilage product includes a collagen matrix comprising mechanical disruptions, wherein the mechanical disruptions extend through the entire thickness of the collagen matrix. In yet another embodiment, the mechanical disruptions are selected from: spiral cut, scores, intersecting scores, radial scores, hoop-cut, and pores.

In other embodiments, the cartilage product contain collagen matrix comprising mechanical disruptions, wherein the mechanical disruptions extend through less than the entire thickness of the collagen matrix. In some embodiments, the mechanical disruptions are selected from: spiral cut, scores, intersecting-scores, and radial scores.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product of the present technology includes a collagen matrix has a thickness of about 0.2 mm to about 2.0 mm, alternatively a thickness of about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm.

In yet another embodiment, the present technology provides a cartilage product wherein the collagen matrix contains viable cells, optionally wherein the viable cells are native to the collagen matrix. In yet another embodiments, the cartilage product of the present technology includes a collagen matrix is decellularized.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product of the present technology further comprising a layer of bone, optionally wherein the layer of bone is native to the collagen matrix. In some embodiments, the layer of bone has a surface area substantially less than that of the collagen matrix. In yet another embodiment, the layer of bone is a plug, a shelled plug, or a shelled layer or bone.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product of the present technology contains collagen matrix that is a natural human collagen matrix. In yet another embodiment, the collagen matrix comprises hyaline cartilage.

In yet another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology comprises hyaline cartilage. In some embodiments, the hyaline cartilage comprises articular cartilage.

In yet another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology contains a collagen matrix, wherein the collagen matrix comprises viable chondrocytes in an amount of at least any of: about 500 cells/mm², about 600 cells/mm², about 700 cells/mm², about 800 cells/mm², about 1200 cells/mm², about 1500 cells/mm², and about 5000 cells/mm², optionally wherein the viable chondrocytes are native to the collagen matrix.

In yet another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology contains a collagen matrix, wherein the collagen matrix comprises one or more layers selected from: a tangential layer, a transitional layer, and a radial layer. In some embodiments, the collagen matrix comprises a tangential layer comprising at least any of: about 100 cells/mm², about 200 cells/mm², and about 1000 cells/mm², optionally wherein the viable chondrocytes are native to the collagen matrix.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product contains a collagen matrix comprising a transitional layer comprising at least any of: about 100 cells/mm², about 200 cells/mm², and about 400 cells/mm², optionally wherein the viable chondrocytes are native to the collagen matrix.

In other embodiments, the cartilage product contains a collagen matrix comprising a radial layer comprising at least any of: about 100 cells/mm² and about 200 cells/mm², optionally wherein the viable chondrocytes are native to the collagen matrix.

In another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology contains a collagen matrix, wherein the collagen matrix is flexible, optionally wherein the collagen matrix has a flexibility such that it can be bend or folded without breaking. In some embodiments, the cartilage product contains collagen matrix that has a Young's modulus of at least about any of: 0.1 MPa, 0.2 MPa, 0.3 MPa, and 0.4 MPa.

Another embodiment provides method of treatment comprising administering to a subject in need thereof, a cartilage product of the present technology. In some embodiments, the cartilage product is administered arthroscopically. In another embodiment, administering comprises folding or rolling the cartilage product. In yet another embodiment, the step of administering is performed in conjunction with a microfracture procedure.

In another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology includes collagen matrix comprising type II collagen. In some embodiments, the cartilage product includes collagen matrix comprising hyaline cartilage. In some embodiments, the cartilage product includes collagen matrix that is a natural collagen matrix, optionally, wherein the collagen matrix is a human collagen matrix.

In yet another embodiment, the cartilage product of the present technology includes collagen matrix that is a natural collagen matrix, optionally, wherein the collagen matrix is a human collagen matrix.

In some embodiments, the cartilage product further comprising an additive. 

What is claimed:
 1. A cryopreserved cartilage product comprising a partially digested cryopreserved natural cartilage collagen matrix isolated from a subject, wherein: the collagen matrix contains viable cells embedded within the collagen matrix that are native to the collagen matrix and that were embedded in the collagen matrix when the collagen matrix was isolated from the subject; at least 70% of the embedded cells native to the collagen matrix are viable in the cryopreserved cartilage product; and the partially digested collagen matrix retains interaction between the collagen matrix and the native cells.
 2. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the collagen matrix has a thickness of about 0.2 mm to about 2.0 mm.
 3. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the collagen matrix has a thickness of about 1 mm to about 1.5 mm.
 4. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the viable cells native to the collagen matrix comprise viable chondrocytes.
 5. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the collagen matrix comprises a bioactive factor that is native to the collagen matrix.
 6. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, further comprising a cryopreservation medium.
 7. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the cartilage product is devoid of subchondral bone or calcified cartilage.
 8. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the cartilage product is depleted of immunogenic cells.
 9. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the cartilage product does not comprise macrophages.
 10. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, further comprising a layer of bone, wherein the layer of bone is native to the collagen matrix.
 11. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the partially digested collagen matrix is substantially intact relative to an undigested collagen matrix.
 12. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the partially digested collagen matrix comprises extracellular matrix protein fragments.
 13. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1, wherein the collagen matrix comprises a cartilage layer that includes a radial layer, a transitional layer, or a tangential layer.
 14. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 13, wherein the collagen matrix comprises a plurality of channels.
 15. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 14, wherein the plurality of channels extend entirely through the radial, transitional, or tangential layer.
 16. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 14, wherein the plurality of channels have a cylindrical shape.
 17. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 14, wherein the collagen matrix comprises a channel density of about 10 to about
 100. 18. The cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 14, wherein the plurality of channels have a diameter of about 0.6 mm to about 1 mm.
 19. A method of treating an injured tissue in a subject, the method comprising removing the injured tissue and administering a thawed cryopreserved cartilage product of claim 1 to the site where the injured tissue was removed.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the injured tissue is articular cartilage. 